DESPITE being forced to close three times during 2020, a Llandybie gym says it has gone from strength to strength throughout the Covid pandemic.

Soulfit Gym celebrates its one-year anniversary this month from its base at Cilyrychen Industrial Estate.

Owner Lowri Thomas said she set out to create a positive eco-friendly gym that offers something for everyone from competitive bodybuilders to those that have only just started their fitness journey.

Starting a businesses in the year of the Covid-19 pandemic has not been easy, says Lowri, but she said she has received plenty of support from the community.

Lowri said: “I wanted to create a gym that was warm, friendly and welcoming as I know it can be daunting when you first start coming to a new gym or fitness class.

“We opened in January 2020 and then had to close in March resulting in me losing almost 70 per cent of the members I had gained in the first two months.

“Since re-opening we have had to restrict numbers in the classes. It has been difficult but I’m so grateful for all the support I’ve had.”

One local business that has been lending its support to Lowri is Ammanford’s Ashmole & Co partner, Laura Craddock, who has been providing Lowri with business advice and support while also using the gym herself by attending the circuit classes before heading into the office.

Laura said: “The first year of setting up a new business always comes with a bit of trepidation but Lowri’s positive attitude has got her through this exceptionally difficult year for many business owners.”

Before setting up the Soulfit Gym, Lowri, who lives within walking distance of the gym, in Pentregwenlais, managed a gym in Carmarthen and worked on retreats in Greece. She has also worked as a physiotherapy technician in Morriston Hospital. She took advantage of the time during the first lockdown to develop her skills even further with numerous online courses.

Soulfit’s 7,000sq ft is filled with the latest resistance and cardio training equipment. It also has a dedicated studio for yoga, meditation and other classes. To find out more about membership or to book a session visit: www.soulfitwales.co.uk